Simon Cowell has confirmed there will be an Olympics-themed 'X Factor' live show, which will pay tribute to the recent exploits of the Olympic and Paralympic heroes

Simon Cowell has confirmed there will be an Olympics-themed 'X Factor' live show.

The show's creator says he is keen to do an episode of the UK programme that pays tribute to the recent exploits of the Olympic and Paralympic heroes and says they would all be welcome to come on and mentor the contestants.

He told Channel 5 news: "I think we're going to do something around the Olympics on one of the live shows so they're all welcome. We like having heroes on our shows."

Contestants will sing songs related to the recent games including 'Gold' by Spandau Ballet and Tina Turner's 'Simply the Best'.

Gold medallists Jessica Ennis, Mo Farrah and Ellie Simmonds are expecting to be approached to take part in the show, which will involve them giving advice to the hopefuls.

However, cyclist Bradley Wiggins has ruled out appearing as he is not a fan.

He said: "Let's not talk about 'The X Factor'. Compared to the Olympics, everywhere you went the country was on a high, and as athletes it was phenomenal to see that, then you see 'X Factor' and it's like, 'Oh God, everyone's got to put up with that all winter now'."